Summary

Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party voted to replace its youth wing, “Young Alternative” (JA), with a new organization under tighter party control.

The decision follows Germany’s intelligence service classifying the JA as a confirmed extremist group in 2023.

The new group, tentatively named “Patriotic Youth,” will require closer alignment with party principles. AfD leaders hope the change protects the party from reputational risks and potential bans.

The AfD, polling at 20-22% for February’s election, remains controversial due to Germany’s historical aversion to far-right governance.